Teen suspect fled in cuffs

Crime story

A WIGAN teen who ran away having been handcuffed by police was “having a laugh at the officer’s expense,” a court heard.

Stefan O’Sullivan made the half-hearted dash for freedom while being transferred between police vehicles in November last year.

The 19-year-old of Kings Avenue, Lowton, was ordered to pay almost £300 in fines by Wigan magistrates. He pleaded guilty to a charge of obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty.

Mike Ardern, prosecuting, said O’Sullivan was arrested in connection with another unnamed “serious” offence that was subsequently dropped for lack of evidence at Liverpool Crown Court earlier this month.

On November 11, police were taking the teenager into custody as part of that case when he ran across the street.

Mr Ardern added: “He had been formally arrested and was taken to a separate vehicle and had handcuffs on at the time. The officer accompanying him said he felt O’Sullivan’s body tense and his hands dropped towards the floor meaning he let go of the defendant.

“The chase only lasted about 10 seconds before the officer was able to grab hold of O’Sullivan again. This is the first time he has had chance to plead guilty and to his credit he has done.”

Martin Smith, defending, said: “He has admitted the offence and said he was just having a laugh at the officer’s expense, it was not a legitimate attempt to escape because he was still in handcuffs. He has been complying with his bail and turned up at Crown Court when required during that time.”

The court was told that the defendant was subject to a conditional discharge from a previous offence.

For obstructing the police officer O’Sullivan was fined £73, a victim surcharge of £20 and costs of £85. For breaching the previous conditional discharge, he was fined £110.